Law and compliance changes, funding opportunities and cost changes that affect South African small businesses. Every update is checked against the official source.
The Transformation Fund still has no application process and the B-BBEE code changes behind it are still drafts, so nobody can apply for you yet.
Who it affects: Black-owned businesses hoping for funding, and larger businesses that must meet B-BBEE targets
Every employer registered for PAYE must submit the EMP501 interim reconciliation for March to August 2026 between 21 September and 31 October.
Who it affects: Every employer registered for PAYE, including small businesses with one employee
SARS has moved diesel refund registration to a new eFiling system, and existing farming, forestry, mining and fishing users must register again because it is not automatic.
Who it affects: Businesses claiming diesel refunds (farming, forestry, mining, fishing and others) and diesel sellers
Individuals with a February year-end who underpaid provisional tax for 2025/26 have until 30 September 2026 to make the voluntary third payment.
Who it affects: Provisional taxpayers with a February year-end, including most sole proprietors
With the repo rate at 7% and prime at 10.50%, the 23 September decision will set the cost of variable-rate business debt.
Who it affects: Businesses and owners with overdrafts, loans or vehicle finance linked to prime
Diesel rose by 293.90 to 314.90 cents a litre on 2 September 2026. Review transport costs, prices and quotes against the confirmed increase.
Who it affects: Transport, delivery, farming, construction and any business that runs vehicles or generators
Non-provisional taxpayers must file by 23 October 2026, while provisional taxpayers and trusts have until 22 January 2027.
Who it affects: Individual taxpayers, including sole proprietors, and trusts
An 18-month growth programme for black-owned businesses trading for at least two years, with applications closing at midday on 13 October.
Who it affects: At least 51% black-owned businesses trading for 2+ years with paying customers
SARS wants your views on proposed digital VAT invoicing and reporting. Comments close on 16 October 2026; no invoicing rules change yet.
Who it affects: VAT-registered businesses, and businesses close to registering for VAT
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This update is general information, checked against the official source on the date shown. It is not legal, tax or financial advice. Rules and dates can change, so confirm with the official source or a qualified adviser before you act.
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